Värttinä cover

Värttinä

Värttinä · 1987

41 min · 17 tracks · folk · contemporary folk music

A vibrant tapestry of Finnish folk traditions interwoven with modern sensibilities and infectious rhythms.

Why this album works

Best for
infectious rhythms for dancing short bursts of lively energy playful melodies for gatherings
Context
Released in 1987, Värttinä's self-titled debut album marked the group's emergence in the contemporary folk music scene. At this juncture, they were still refining their unique sound, blending traditional Karelian melodies with contemporary arrangements. This album laid the groundwork for their future success and experimentation in subsequent releases.
If you like
folk, contemporary folk music

Värttinä is an album by Värttinä, released in 1987. A vibrant tapestry of Finnish folk traditions interwoven with modern sensibilities and infectious rhythms. Värttinä is significant for reviving interest in Finnish folk music, helping to bring it to a global audience. The album garnered critical acclaim, paving the way for the group’s influence on the world music scene in the late '80s and beyond. Their innovative approach also contributed to a wider movement of folk revival across Europe during this time. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Värttinä sound like?

A vibrant tapestry of Finnish folk traditions interwoven with modern sensibilities and infectious rhythms. Rooted in folk and contemporary folk music.

What makes Värttinä by Värttinä notable?

Värttinä is significant for reviving interest in Finnish folk music, helping to bring it to a global audience. The album garnered critical acclaim, paving the way for the group’s influence on the world music scene in the late '80s and beyond. Their innovative approach also contributed to a wider movement of folk revival across Europe during this time. Released in 1987, Värttinä's self-titled debut album marked the group's emergence in the contemporary folk music scene. At this juncture, they were still refining their unique sound, blending traditional Karelian melodies with contemporary arrangements. This album laid the groundwork for their future success and experimentation in subsequent releases.

Who is Värttinä for?

Värttinä works well if you're into infectious rhythms for dancing, short bursts of lively energy and playful melodies for gatherings.

How many songs are on Värttinä?

Värttinä has 17 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Tracklist

17 tracks·41:30

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ruskie neitsyt (Brown-Haired Maiden) Standout 2:23
  • 2 Mainitus (Mainitus Dance) 1:38
  • 3 Lehmän tanssi (Cow's Dance) 4:01
  • 4 Miss' on miun armahin (Where Is My Beloved) Standout 3:56
  • 5 Mie tahon tasaista miestä (I Want a Steady Man) 1:21
  • 6 Juhon kontra (Juho's Contradance) 1:36
  • 7 Tutskovin polska (Tutskov's Polska) 1:54
  • 8 Suojärven katrilli (Suojärvi Quadrille) 2:28
  • 9 Karjalainen kehtolaulu (Lullaby from Karelia) Standout 4:13
  • 10 Varrii ompi zaijuvesj (The Tea-Water Is Hot) 2:13
  • 11 Koiviston polska (Koivisto Polska) 1:37
  • 12 Duetto (Duet) 1:38
  • 13 Melkutus (Melkutus Dance) 1:45
  • 14 Sade (Rain) 3:24
  • 15 Tsiiputus (Tsiiputus Dance) 1:27
  • 16 Sekatyylipolkka (Polka in Mixed Style) 2:18
  • 17 Ompa tietty tietyssäni (I Am Thinking of a Particular One) 3:32

Release Date

January 1, 1987

Artist Origin

Finland

Runtime

41 min 30 sec